The Raveled Road Leads to Shadowcliff

For nearly two decades The Lighthouse Writers Workshop, a not-for-profit 501(C)(3) organization, has hosted a multi-day writers’ workshop at Shadowcliff Lodge. Lighthouse is the largest literary arts center in the Rocky Mountain West, providing quality instruction and artistic support for writers and readers of all levels, ages, and backgrounds.

Both Lighthouse faculty and workshop participants find retreat and connection as they explore, write, and share their experiences embraced in Shadowcliff’s natural beauty. Roger Thomas Wehling is a frequent participant in Lighthouse’s Shadowcliff workshops and has graciously consented to share one of his recent reflections from the Lighthouse/Shadowcliff experience this summer. Roger’s 2015 collection of poetry, The Raveled Road includes several other pieces which have grown from Lighthouse Workshops at Shadowcliff.

All poetry is translation—The ineffable presentedThrough imperfect words.And like all translationImpossibleAnd urgently necessary.

To be a Lighthouse writerAssumes the responsibilityTo shine lightInto deep crevasses,Reflect the sky,Sun and stars into everyDark corner.

For years nowSome of these writers have assembledIn buildings rusticBut not ramshackleTo ponder the crowsOver the lakeOr the swallows’ hectic danceBeyond the balcony,To gushOver the rushing riverSo near its goal.

Each night they gatherTo hear each others’ creationsFrom the infinite pathsThat lead from a single trailhead.The very air seems to gobble up their words—This is what the world needsThese words, these voicesTales of woe and forgivenessOf laughter and love.Sometimes the thunder echoesThrough the night skywith its applause.